Srinagar, Jul 19 (KNS): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday deferred its proposed 'Secretariat Gherao March' scheduled at Lal Chowk here on July 20, citing the worsening flood situation in the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch.

 

State Co-Media Incharge Adv. Sajid Yousuf Shah confirmed to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) the decision was taken in view of the prevailing emergency in the twin districts, which have been battered by heavy rains and flash floods over the past 48 hours.

 

"A fresh date for the protest march will be announced shortly," Shah said.

 

The march was originally planned to press the party's demands related to various issues concerning the Union Territory.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelFurther schedule will be communicated later, the party said.

 

Notably, At least 11 people have lost their lives and several others are reported missing in rain-related incidents across Rajouri and Poonch.

 

Rescue and relief operations are underway, with the Army and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams deployed in the affected areas.

 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued rainfall in the region till July 23, with alerts issued for several districts of Jammu division. (KNS)